The name derives from its location on the western border of the Isle of Thanet
(originally seperated from the Kent mainland). Before the channels of the River Wantsum and River Stour silted up, one would have been able to 'wade' at this point.
In Roman times the channel was navigable and the site likely very busy with the Saxon Shore Forts of Regulbium and Rutupiae both close by. Remains of Roman shipbuilding yards are said to have been found between St. Nicholas-at-Wade and the nearby village of Sarre.
Church of St. Nicholas
The 13th century church is thought to have originally been a chapel-of-ease for the erstwhile St.
Mary's church at Reculver. The first Rector is recorded as Adam de Brancaster in 1294.
Built in flint, the church houses some fine 16th century brasses and the Royal Arms of King George III. A carved oak pulpit is dated 1615.
The parish has twice been enlarged, firstly joined with the little-known parish of All Saints, Shuart[3]
in early medieval times (the church at Shuart was demolished in the 17th century) and latterly in the mid-16th century twinned with St. Giles in Sarre. The benefice is currently part of the
Wantsum Group of Parishes.